The 5 Best Running Shorts for Men of 2024

Best Overall Men's Running Shorts

Rabbit FKT 2.0 5"

$75 at REI (before member cash back!)

The Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" represents a gold standard in running shorts. The 1.75-inch waistband and brief liner are both incredibly comfortable, and the light poly-spandex material with a wide side cut at the base of the leg provides great mobility and reliable moisture control. Topping out at only 5.5 ounces, this design combination helps to create a weightless feel in stride. The liner is well made, with flat seams and a mesh fabric. The array of six pockets offers incredible versatility for storing necessities, setting you up for long trail runs in the backcountry, or even just a trip down to the store without worrying about your wallet falling out in the aisle. Two mesh pockets (one large and one small) are located on both sides of the hips, providing ample storage for gels, small water bottles, or any similarly sized items.

The main downside of the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" is the high cost. Among the most costly in our lineup, these shorts are definitely pricey when compared to the cost of other excellent options, such as the Janji AFO Middle 5" and Brooks Sherpa 5". But our testers believe the price to be well worth it for what they deliver. That said, the FKT 2.0 may be too breezy for some. The 5-inch inseam offers decent coverage for the length but certainly, not as much as longer inseams can provide. Fortunately, Rabbit sells several variations of the same model, including versions with a 3-inch or 7-inch inseam as well as a 2-in-1 tights/shorts combination for those who prefer that style. Everyday runners looking for a simpler short design that will get the job done at a lower price may appreciate what the well-rounded Adidas Own the Run 5" has to offer instead.

Best Shorts on a Budget

Adidas Own the Run 5"

$35 at REI (before member cash back!)

$35 at Amazon

Adidas is a household name for a reason, and the Adidas Own the Run 5" shorts are another solid example of why. These shorts are super lightweight (only 4.1 ounces), versatile, and affordable, and as a result, they are our pick for runners looking to save a few dollars. The polyester material used to make the liner and body of the shorts is very quick drying, and the design boasts a rear zip pocket large enough to hold one of today's smartphones, albeit with a bit of muscling to fit one inside. This tends to be a premium feature often only offered on more expensive shorts, so such a pocket's appearance here, on a pair at this price point, is surprising and notable. The Own the Run shorts offer great running performance and excel in gym settings, but are also equally at home out and about town, making them an easy recommendation for anyone who is looking to add versatility to their wardrobe while managing a tighter budget.

While the Adidas Own the Run 5" is a solid choice for many runners and comes in varying lengths depending on preference, they underperform in comparison to some higher-priced models. The fabric is decently breathable, but other options like the Janji AFO Middle 5" and REI Co-op Swiftland 5" really take the cake when it comes to such features, with elevated designs that incorporate more stretch and mesh fabrics to ensure excellent mobility and airflow. While the Own the Run shorts are sufficient, they are not our first choice when it comes to comfort on long runs or action in heat. Similarly, while the rear pocket is secure and has little bounce, the side pockets bounce a great deal when holding larger objects. These hand pockets also have no closures, and larger items tend to slide out with the right (or maybe wrong) movements. So take care when stashing valuables before heading out the door. Despite these drawbacks, Adidas's Own the Run shorts are an excellent pick for anyone seeking comfort and utility at an affordable price. For those who find liners uncomfortable, check out the linerless Northyard Athletic Lightweight 5" shorts, which offer similar comfort at a slightly lower price. Or, for just a small bump in price, the REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7" is another slightly longer, lined option worthy of consideration.

Best Long Distance Performance

Patagonia Strider Pro 5"

$85 at REI (before member cash back!)

$85 at Public Lands

$85 at Backcountry

The Patagonia Strider Pro 5" has been featured at the top of our list for several years now, and the latest update to the model has not changed our minds. While the rear zip pocket no longer fits the ever-increasing size of many mobile phones, these shorts still perform excellently in all metrics and, at 3.7 ounces, are the lightest of all pairs we tested. This makes them a great choice for longer distance days when you may also choose to run with a hydration pack that provides ample space to store your cell as well. Rear pocket aside, the Patagonia Strider Pro offers every other feature we'd expect out of a short in this price range. The material is incredibly light and stretchy and feels nearly weightless while on a run. A novel design with overlapping panels up top on the hip pockets means they hold items snugly against the body with little risk of falling out, and a large and aggressive sidecut makes every stride feel unencumbered.

While this short performs excellently in motion, some runners may still shy away from the Patagonia Strider Pro 5" given their hefty price tag — the steepest we saw in our lineup. For a similar performing short at a more accessible price, check out the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" or the Brooks Sherpa 5". We also note that some longtime users of the Patagonia Strider Pro have reported a drop in material quality as compared with older models. These complaints have mostly centered around concerns of lower durability, a smaller liner, and less fabric in the legs of the shorts. We didn't run into any of these problems in the course of our review, and our testers were still ecstatic to put these on for their runs overall, but the complaints are worth noting as it is always possible discrepancies exist in production. Due to the above limitations and given their shorter length cut, runners who want a little more coverage or who require an option for everyday use may prefer the 7-inch inseam of the same Strider Pro model or the 8-inch inseam of the Patagonia Multi Trails.

Best Tempo/Racing Shorts

Janji AFO Middle 5"

$64 at REI (before member cash back!)

If you are put off by the bulkiness of some other shorts on the market, look no further than the Janji AFO Middle 5" shorts. These are among the lightest shorts we tested, coming in at only 4.3 ounces, with a healthy amount of stretch and mesh incorporated into the material to facilitate easy movement. This is very evident in use, as the shorts feel quite airy and do not restrict movement at all. Despite the low weight, they do not skimp on comfort, integrating an excellent liner and equally comfortable waistband. The waistband is perforated, which adds to the great breathability captured overall in the design of the shorts. All of this combines to make a running short that inspires speed and keeps the wearer focused on their pace without worrying about chafing or discomfort. The rear pocket is capable of fitting today's typical smartphone with a bit of effort on the squeeze. Finally, the Janji AFO Middle comes in several vibrant colors and striking patterns, making them a great pick if you like to stand out when you run.

One of the more confusing design choices on the Janji AFO Middle 5" shorts is the placement of the front keyhole pocket. This kind of pocket is common on dedicated running shorts, allowing the wearer to comfortably fit a single key/fob or maybe a gel or two, but not much more. The AFO Middle shorts place this pocket on the front left of the pelvis rather than the sides. Larger items in this pocket can create chafing more readily than a side or rear keyhole as it lines up flush with the pelvis. So, while the waistband material does hold items in place without bounce, the placement takes a little getting used to. Another drawback of these Janji shorts is their tendency to absorb water. On longer runs or in warm and humid climates, you can expect these shorts to soak easily and show that sweat boldly against the body. If such visuals worry you, consider picking up a darker colorway or checking out the Patagonia Strider Pro 5" or Northyard Athletic Lightweight 5", which offer excellent moisture control yet are still reasonably lightweight.

Best for Hot Temperatures

REI Co-op Swiftland 5"

$42 at REI (30% off!)

For those who live in warmer climates or tend to overheat, the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" is an incredibly breezy and light choice. The legs of the shorts are stitched in a novel grid pattern, with seams running in between squares of mesh. This allows the shorts to breathe well without making them overly sheer or revealing while also giving them a striking semi-futuristic look. The stretchy waistband is quite wide at 2 inches, ensuring a responsive fit that holds the waist with comfort and stability. Such width in a waistband may seem an unexpected choice, but the results in fit and comfort speak for themselves. At 4.6 ounces, the lightweight nature of these shorts makes them well-suited to tempo runs or PR (personal record) attempts, even if they may still not perform as well as some other models, like the Patagonia Strider Pro 5", during longer sessions.

The lack of pockets on the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" short is its main drawback. But since all three of those that do exist are functional, we won't complain much. Other high-end products include five or six pockets — the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" and Brooks Sherpa 5" come to mind — and we wish the Swiftlands offered similar diversity in options. But of what there is, the side pockets successfully hold small items very well, like gels or keys, and the rear zippered pocket, while smallish, was able to fit our phone with just a bit of effort, though none of the options are sized appropriately for larger items like water bottles or hydration flasks. Finally, the light, breathable nylon-spandex mesh material used to construct the legs of the shorts worries us a little when it comes to long-term durability if they were to be faced with falls or snags. However, such issues did not present a problem in testing. So, we may be overthinking the concern. According to lead tester Craig D'Innocente, “The benefit greatly outweighs any risk of puncture or tears,” and the impressive airflow is a primary draw of the Swiftlands. If breathability is a priority but cost is also a concern, the Adidas Own the Run 5" and the Northyard Athletic Lightweight 5" are inexpensive choices that get the job done better than others.

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	84	Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" Best Overall Men's Running Shorts	$75
	81	REI Co-op Swiftland 5" Best for Hot Temperatures	$60
	80	Janji AFO Middle 5" Best Tempo/Racing Shorts	$64
	79	Patagonia Strider Pro 5" Best Long Distance Performance	$85
	77	Brooks Sherpa 5"	$64
	76	Adidas Own the Run 5" Best Shorts on a Budget	$35
	75	Patagonia Multi Trails 8"	$79
	72	Nike Stride Dri-FIT 5"	$55
	71	REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7"	$45
	67	NorthYard Athletic Lightweight 5"	$27
	67	New Balance RC 5"	$65
	67	Vuori Kore 7.5"	$68
	67	ON Lightweight 7"	$80
	61	Under Armour Launch Run 7"	$38
	53	Champion Moisture Wicking Athletic 7"	$25

How We Test Running Shorts

We tested running shorts from the roads and trails of southwestern Colorado to the elaborate network of gravel fire roads, dirt paths, and paved motorways of Oregon, all to help you hone in on the pair that will serve you best. A bulk of our recent testing was done in intervals of 3 and 7 miles along the McKenzie River Trail, a popular running destination for many in Western Oregon. These in-stride tests evaluated the comfort, fit, and performance of each model. We also tested these shorts for hiking and general athletics use, as well as for everyday comfort. Ongoing field testing occurs in concert with objective in-hand testing, including dry time testing and product measurements, as well as an evaluation and comparison with manufacturer specifications.

• Comfort (25% of overall score weighting)

• Waistband and Liner Fit (25% weighting)

• Pocket Functionality (20 % weighting)

• Moisture Control (20% weighting)

• Style and Versatility (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Mountain athlete and runner Craig D'Innocente leads this review. Craig works seasonally in different parts of the country, most recently taking on the role of Botany Technician within the Willamette National Forest. Hiking far distances in the backcountry and on Forest Service roads is a primary part of his job, so runs in his free time play an integral part of his routine to maintain fitness for work and the upcoming ski season. Matthew Richardson is another passionate runner and all-around mountain sport enthusiast based in Durango, Colorado. An interest in environmental biology and GIS (Geospatial Information Systems) first brought him to the San Juan Mountains for college, and in the years since, he has built a life dedicated to maximizing his time in the outdoors, with trail running at its center. As one of GearLab's running experts, Matthew has not only taken on a central role in evaluating running shorts over the years, but he also takes the lead in our review of men's road running shoes.

Analysis and Test Results

In addition to testing on the run, the five metrics that we evaluated for each pair of shorts are comfort, waistband and liner fit, pocket performance, moisture control, and style and versatility. Our metric sections below outline how each pair of shorts performs in each metric.

Value

When comparing running shorts, the value of each pair of shorts includes an assessment of not only cost but, just as importantly, how well that expense balances with the comfort and running performance the garment delivers. While some of the higher-end shorts offer unparalleled performance, runners on a budget may find they are just as satisfied with the results they can get from apparel options sold at more median price points. This is especially relevant when one is considering a purchase of several pairs. While it may make sense to spend top dollar on the shorts you'll wear for race day, perhaps everyday runs will go just as smoothly in something that sells at half the cost. If budget is a sticking point in your shopping decisions, the Adidas Own the Run 5" shorts are an excellent example of impressive comfort and performance sold at an affordable price. While other inexpensive options like the NorthYard Athletic Lightweight 5", Under Armour Launch Run 7", and Champion Moisture Wicking Athletic 7" may suffice under average demands, the Adidas stood out above the rest in nearly every metric, and comes is at the bottom of the pack when it comes to price. For just a few dollars more, the REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7" are another reasonably priced option that will do you right on run days.

Comfort

Nothing can sap the joy from a run faster than clothing that is irritating to your skin, restricting your movement, or otherwise demanding your attention and keeping you from your flow. A comfortable pair of shorts should be easy to put on, fit snugly on the body, provide the support and coverage intended, allow for flexible movement, and be generally irritant-free in use. When design features disappoint, the results can show up as pinching or chafing, poor heat control, sagging and shifting of the garment as you move, or even a reduction in overall mobility. Such design flaws can prove more than just a nuisance; they can cause discomfort and distraction and, in turn, slow you down. So it's worth being sure your running gear can keep up with your individual needs and your pace.

One of the ways high-quality shorts help to enhance your mobility is to incorporate stretchy fabric blends into their designs. Lightweight, elasticized materials are of great value in running shorts as they ensure your legs have a full range of motion and won't get caught in the grip of a heavy, fixed seam. Shorts that are not built of such stretchy fabrics, like the Champion Moisture Wicking Athletic 7" and Under Armour Launch Run 7", often feel very bulky and more restrictive as a result. Another common design choice that helps guarantee a free range of motion is a sidecut or vertical slit incorporated along the sideline of the leg. This is sometimes cut into a single fabric panel used to create a leg opening, or it is sometimes created when two or more panels are overlaid across one another, leaving a draped break between the two. This targeted side-opening helps the leg of the short to move more easily in stride as you run.

The comfort of any garment always depends on the material used and the construction style at play. With running shorts, very often sheer, synthetic fibers are favored due to their lightweight, smooth finish and tendency to facilitate airflow. It is common to see a wide variety of different synthetic materials blended by manufacturers, sometimes even in only a single component of the short. This creative fine-tuning of the fabrics, in conjunction with considered stitching along the seams, can go a long way in facilitating airflow and moisture wicking and preventing chafing, be it at the waist, along the legs, in association with pockets, or in the groin areas.

Rounded or flat seams — like those on the liners of the Janji AFO Middle 5" and Brooks Sherpa 5" — do a great job at protecting the groin from uncomfortable irritation while in motion. Smart decisions in the cut can also play a role in how your shorts feel when put to their intended use. For example, the Northyard Athletic Lightweight Short 5" features a strangely high-cut crotch, which ultimately obstructs the legs once you get moving (contributing to its lower score in this metric). We liked the cut of the Nike Stride Dri-FIT 5", which has a more traditional crotch combined with a nice sidecut.

Another important aspect of comfort we look for is breathability. Temperature and moisture control management are important during any exercise, especially when you hit the point of sweating. Manufacturers apply several different strategies to address these concerns. One of the most popular is the incorporation of mesh fabrics into shorts' designs. Mesh can be found in a variety of locations: built into waistbands, added as panels along the legs or at the back, or used for pockets or to create liners. Mesh allows air to move from the body out around the legs, pulling heat and air-drying moisture. We particularly like the application we saw in the ON Lightweight 7", where mesh panels can be found at the rear but not upfront, creating a pleasant directional airflow. We also loved the unique stretchy mesh weave used to create the body of the REI Co-op Swiftland 5" shorts, which proves very effective at moving air and keeping you dry once you start logging miles.

Longer inseams and shorts-style liners can create breathability problems due to the larger amount of fabric used in their creation. The REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7" maintain solid breathability despite their 6.4-ounce weight and 7-inch inseam by installing a particularly light polyester brief liner and mesh panels near the waist. In contrast, the longer Patagonia Multi Trails 8" and even heavier Vuori Kore 7.5" suffer from less breathability due to their fabric-heavy designs. These are better suited for cooler days as a result, providing more support and better coverage than a lighter, more mesh-reliant short with a thinner brief.

Waistband and Liner Fit

The fit of a pair of running shorts depends heavily on its liner and waistband design, as well as the length of its legs and the width of those leg openings. Waistbands and their accompanying drawstrings are the main tools used to deliver a customized fit. They can come in a variety of widths, materials, and styles. Wide waistbands like what you see on the ON Lightweight 7" or REI Co-op Swiftland 5" shorts have stretchy wide bands around the middle akin to the style you might see on yoga pants. That thick band provides a snug, responsive fit around the waistline to maintain a soft yet stable position once you are in motion. Although not traditionally associated with running apparel, it has become an increasingly popular design choice in recent years.

Some models have stuck with a more classic midsection design, utilizing a bunched drawstring elastic waistband to hold their position on the body, reminiscent of high school gym shorts. This old-school design, as seen on the New Balance RC 5" and Champion Moisture Wicking Athletic 7", does provide a snug fit, but its elasticized bunched style can begin to dig into the waist with extended movement and may become uncomfortable and distracting over time.

Waistbands are typically accompanied by a drawstring. Drawstrings can be placed within the interior of the shorts or out along the exterior of the waistband. They are used to dial in the final fit and may be pulled taut or left loose, depending on individual needs. We tend to prefer exterior designs since this avoids any potential problems with chafing. Interior placements mean the knot sits right at the pelvis, where it can rub against the skin and create an uncomfortable running experience once sweat collects, especially when engaged in long-distance efforts. Some of the wider yoga-style waistbands may incorporate an interior drawstring, like what we saw on the ON Lightweight 7" and REI Co-op Swiftland 5" shorts. But, in practice, we never found the need to take advantage of such additional tightening tools since the waistbands themselves were already so stable and well-fitted without them.

Most of our top-scoring pairs of shorts in this metric had wide waistbands of 1.75 inches in width or more. Yet a couple of our favorite shorts had waistbands a bit smaller. The 1.63-inch Janji AFO Middle and the 1.13-inch Patagonia Strider Pro opted for less width and instead integrated mesh into their designs. This provides even greater breathability around the middle without compromising support and adjustability in fit. These two models also offer external drawstrings to ensure a tailored fit and chafe-free run.

A built-in liner, when included, is a secondary tool to help you achieve optimal fit in your running shorts. At its best, a brief will provide the necessary interior support you need to maintain your stride over distances without any distractions. However, not all liners hold things together adequately, and this can sometimes lead to uncomfortable situations. Just like the body of the shorts, liners are generally constructed of mixed materials, usually some sort of synthetic blend. Spandex is the most form-fitting of these fabrics, with nylon and polyester proving a little less stretchy when used on their own. This means that liners with high spandex content often provide a lot more support, hugging closer to the body, while something made of a fabric higher in nylon or polyester alone will sit more loosely against the skin. The extra stretch can be welcomed for support, but it is important to remember a fitted liner can also mean less breathability and higher potential for moisture absorption since that fabric will sit closer to the skin. When there is less room for air to move freely around the body, you will see less cross-fabric breeze and moisture-wicking.

Liner fit also depends on the seams, which should hold their place against the thigh but not cut into the skin. The liner's leg openings are also important, as they should provide enough space for the leg to pass through and enough elasticity, grip, and flexibility to remain locked into position and responsive during movement. Well-built brief liners paired with sidecuts — an opening from each leg's bottom hem up toward the side waist of the short — can make a great combination, ensuring support and coverage while expanding the range within which the leg has to move when achieving stride.

Our favorite liner among the shorts we tested is found in the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" shorts. Extremely lightweight without compromising reliable support, this liner features impressively smooth seams that are not overly tight nor irritating against the skin. The Janji AFO Middle 5" is another top-scoring option with a brief liner that features a rounded seam to keep chafing at bay.

Shorts like the Rei Co-op Swiftland Running Shorts and the Brooks Sherpa 5" set themselves apart with highly breathable mesh liners. The Swiftland also scored well, incorporating the thinnest liner of any we tested, making it our preferred choice for runs in hotter weather. We were disappointed to find the liner of the ON Lightweight Shorts 5" to be a little small in its cut, necessitating constant adjustment to maintain comfort. We were also less enthused with the liner of the New Balance RC 5", which had a tendency to ride up and collect a lot of moisture.

Pocket Functionality

Pockets are the one feature of a short that may or may not be among your top priorities. This will generally depend heavily on your discipline or style of running. Gym or treadmill runners function just fine with no pockets, while trail runners or long-distance road runners may desire several pockets to hold a variety of essentials like nutrition options, a phone, or keys. Holding large or bulky items is asking a bit much out of lightweight running shorts. For these items, we recommend adding a belt or vest, like the ones featured in our hydration pack review, to your gear stash.

This review functions on the assumption that a runner wants some amount of pocket storage, even if only for small items like keys. However, we do not simply score based on the number of pockets available; rather, we consider the overall function, capacity, and versatility of a given model's pocket options. When speaking of function, we are referring to the level of bounce your stored items will experience in a given pocket, as well as how accessible that pocket is during a run and whether or not its closure (if there is one) works smoothly. Capacity is self-explanatory: how much can the pocket hold? Versatility instead refers to how different pockets may be used both during and outside of running. For example, shorts with hand pockets are valued for their usefulness during everyday outings, including around town, increasing their versatility.

The most important attribute of any pocket for us is how it sits on the body during a run and whether or not it bounces when in use. Pockets located on the hips are typically best in this manner, although the design and material influence the final results when put to the test. Stretchy, elasticized materials typically hold items more snugly than non-elastic fabrics. Placement also matters, as some locations minimize bounce more than others. We also took potential use case scenarios for each pair of shorts into account. For example, the Janji AFO Middle 5" only has two pockets, but since the short is geared more towards tempo runs, we understand storage isn't likely to be a grave concern. In contrast, the Nike Stride Dri-FIT 5" offers four pockets in total. But since the rear pocket doesn't fit a phone and the hip pockets offer only a very insecure hold, its scores match the AFO Middle despite technically offering more storage possibilities,

It is not uncommon to find a pocket at the rear of the shorts, just under or incorporated into the waistband. This location is known for reducing bounce, so the rear back pocket is often most often associated with phone storage or a place to stash any larger, heavier items a runner might need to carry. Such pockets are also commonly zippered to protect the device, while side pockets are often secured using elasticity alone, which provides easy access on the go but less security for the contents. In recent years, inconsistently sized rear phone pockets have become a point of contention among runners shopping for the perfect shorts. Given how crucial phones have become to our day-to-day lives, it can be a major inconvenience when smaller pockets fail to fit the newest devices or when zip closure makes it a pain to remove a phone mid-run. Larger pockets may fit the device, but that increase in size sometimes comes with an increase in bounce and proves uncomfortable once you get moving. We find this commonly in hip pockets on large shorts like the Champion Moisture Wicking Athletic 7" and Under Armour Launch Run 7". Each of their side pockets can hold plenty of items, but they do so with poor security.

Once again, the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" was among our favorite options when we wanted to run hands-free. A well-sized and positioned rear pocket provides ample storage with minimum bounce, and thoughtful hip pockets can each fit a gel or two. Plus, there is an interior keyhole pocket where it counts for extra security. That's a total of 6 functional pockets — an impressive tally. One of our favorite budget options, the Adidas Own the Run 5", surprised us with a high-performance rear phone pocket incorporated into its otherwise incredibly affordable design. This stands out since decent pockets are one of the first design choices to be cut when manufacturers are looking to create more affordable designs with fewer features. The Brooks Sherpa 5" offers a bounce-free pocket selection similar to what we saw in the top-scoring Rabbit FKT 2.0 shorts, just without one extra keyhole pocket. Finally, we also liked the hip pockets on the Patagonia Strider Pro 5", which include novel overlapping fabric panel closures across their tops to hold smaller items with great security. Unfortunately, our phones did not have a place to land in this model, cutting its score overall. Former models of the Strider Pro were phone-capable, so this loss is a bit of a disappointment.

Moisture Control

High-exertion runs, or simply running in hot climates, can make sweat a big problem. A good pair of shorts will remove excess moisture from the surface of your skin, aiding in the evaporative cooling process and eliminating the threat of irritation. However, if the shorts absorb too much sweat without shedding it, they may become weighted down and saturated, making runs less comfortable and potentially creating unsightly wet patches until you eventually dry out again. While it is hard to avoid saturation after enough effort has been exerted, no matter the shorts, darker colorways can prevent you from falling victim to embarrassing sweat stains. Similarly, selecting products made of high-quality moisture-wicking fabrics will serve all runners best, particularly those who often find themselves running past sweat thresholds. These are features to keep in mind when making a purchase.

We performed two moisture control tests on our lineup to better assess the different materials used in construction. The first test involved soaking each short in water and then hanging it up on a clothesline outside to allow it to dry. The start time was noted when each pair was hung, and then a final drying time was recorded when the same shorts proved dry to the touch. Our second test was a bit more targeted, even if it involved the same soaking protocol to start. This time, we monitored the time each product took to dry while simulating air drying on the body during a run. A blow dryer was set on high flow but at a cold temperature and then directed at a single leg of the short. We then tracked the elapsed time between when the blow dryer was turned on and the moment a palm-sized dry patch appeared on the shorts. This allows us to assess how well the shorts will perform on long runs with heavy sweat, asking questions like, Do the shorts wick away and shed the moisture or absorb and retain sweat over time?

The top performing short in these tests was the Northyard Athletic Lightweight 5", made of a poly-spandex material that shed moisture on the line in just over 1 hour (the fastest of any in the group). It also dried in only 4 minutes during blowdrying, topping the list of high-performers when it comes to moisture-wicking. Other standouts in this metric were both Patagonia models, the Multi Trails and the Strider Pro, as well as the REI Co-op Swiftland 5". Adidas's Own the Run was also among the most impressively quick-drying designs, coming in just 5 minutes slower on the line than the Northyard. Slower drying models included the ON Lightweight Shorts, New Balance RC 5", and the Under Armor Launch Run 7".

We also tracked the moisture-wicking qualities of each short during our test runs, noting which ones saturated quickly and which shorts shed moisture well. This metric returned scores similar to those we captured in objective testing but added a bit of depth to the assessment by allowing us to cross-reference in-use experience. Rather than starting with instant saturation at the beginning of testing, this submetric considered the consistent buildup of moisture during a run as we sweat and then evaluated whether or not that moisture would dissipate at a similar pace. Both pairs of Patagonia shorts and the Northyard Athletic Lightweight still performed well, but some other pairs notably scored worse when assessed in this manner. We found the ON Lightweight Shorts wicked poorly, especially in the liner. Similarly, the Vuori Kore 7.5" performed at a relatively average rate on the clothesline but felt like they were much more prone to saturation during test runs.

Style and Versatility

This is the most subjective of all of our metrics. Although we pull from objective criteria to help inform our scores, style preferences are individual and generally based on a variety of factors. This includes physical and environmental needs, like body shape and temperature, run style and corresponding carry needs, and, of course, personal aesthetics. Versatility, on the other hand, takes into account the amount of coverage provided by the cut as well as pocket functionality. A running short that scores well in this metric will be just as at home in the gym or at the grocery store as it will be on a trail. It will come in a variety of colors and patterns and include options at different lengths to suit varied preferences.

Shorts with longer inseam options, seven inches or above, tend to score higher in this metric, given they transition more easily between different environments. Hand pockets also play a role in assessed versatility, as this feature may not be as well-suited for running but can prove very useful for holding a bulky wallet or phone when used in other settings. While some side hip pockets can hold larger items on a running-intended short, hand pockets are ideal for everyday shorts. And yet, even though style and versatility are important, they are not equally as important as running performance, which is why we only weigh this metric at 10%. Some 5-inch options and shorts with brief liners ended up with decreased scores here due to the eventual discomfort our testers experienced. Some liners may serve comfortably for a two-hour run but can prove tedious and irritating after a full day of wear.

Our favorites in the lineup for versatility are the Patagonia Multi Trails 8", ON Lightweight 7", Vuori Kore 7.5", and REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7". These are all longer inseam shorts, and with the exception of the ON Lightweights, feature robust hip pockets. Even though the ON Lightweight has only one pocket, we find that this short excels when transitioning from a run to the gym to the grocery store. The color block design of the ON Lightweight stood out as eye-catching without being visually demanding, while the Multi Trails and Vuori Kore offer several striking colorways. But when prioritizing a run over activities about town afterward, the Active Pursuits were our favorite.

Where style is concerned, a range of colorways can go a long way in making sure there is a short for every runner. The leaders in this regard are the Vuori Kore 7.5" and the Northyard Athletic Lightweight 5", which offer 17 and 11 colors, respectively. We also like some of the alternative patterns offered on the Rabbit FKT 2.0 5" and Janji AFO Middle 5". Running shorts don't have to be boring, and a fun color palette or pattern can be a point of inspiration to get out the door.

How to Choose a Running Short

Several things separate a general-use athletic short from an excellent running short. Chief among these is a built-in breathable and supportive liner — not something you typically find in a multi-purpose short. Another is a selection of well-placed, well-designed pockets. While comfort is of tantamount concern for any clothing purchase, runners will have a particular set of concerns. How well does a pair of shorts hold its position when engaged in a run? Does the design promote or protect from chafing? How well does the fabric wick moisture and dry on the go? And how much can one carry on the body without producing a negative impact on the comfort of the shorts or one's stride? Before making a purchase, be sure to consider which design elements and features you prefer and which will help you best achieve your goals.

What Inseam Length is Right for You?

It is important to keep in mind that the inseams of running shorts are typically shorter than general-use shorts in order to enhance breathability and mobility. With that said, the inseam length is mostly based on preference and running discipline. For high-pace road runs, shorter inseams are recommended for their enhanced breathability and stride. It is common to see 3-inch or 5-inch inseams as the preferred choices on race day. On the other hand, trail runs typically require longer inseams to protect the legs from the elements better when passing through varied terrain. In these cases, a 7- or 8-inch option may be the right balance. Some runners may choose 2-in-1 or compression-tight styles for such conditions.

Is a Liner Important?

Liners are a big factor in running shorts and exist to replace athletic underwear and deliver support without needing an extra garment. Liners come in a variety of styles and constructions, including both brief and boxer-style liners. Newer runners may be put off by the initial feel of lined running shorts, but this feature is an important facet of the design, providing streamlined support and chafing control. The way a liner is stitched and the material chosen for its construction also play a large role in the comfort of the short once put to use. Liner fabrics are typically synthetic blends made up of unique ratios of polyester, spandex/elastane, and nylon. The stitching on every liner is also variable and comes in rounded, flat, or unfinished designs. There is also a market for unlined shorts, although these are commonly used with compression shorts or tights underneath to deliver the same effect.

What to Look for in a Waistband?

The chief function of a waistband, when paired with the liner of your shorts, is to provide a snug, supportive fit while running. Often, a drawstring is also included in the waistband design to ensure a secure fit around one's hips and stability from the top down. All of the shorts we tested had a drawstring of some type. It is possible to find shorts without such drawstrings, but these models often have a more form-fitting waistband to compensate for the lack of fit adjustment. Wider waistbands typically fit more snugly but can also increase moisture capture. Saturated waistbands may increase chafing and create an unpleasant experience due to sticking to the body. Waistband design and construction are among the more important factors to consider when looking to purchase a new pair of shorts.

What Kind of Pockets do I Need?

While some shorts prioritize light and fast performance over all else, other designs cater to runners who seek storage in some form within their shorts. No matter the length of the run, it is not uncommon to at least carry a few basics. This could be a key, a credit card and ID, energy gels, a phone, or other small essentials. While most shorts are not designed to carry hydration, many pairs include at least one pocket, even if that is just a keyhole. However, others have made efforts to add storage capacity to hold much more. Of course, whether or not those options work well in practice is another story. Rear pockets often come zipped and sized with the intention of holding a phone. However, smartphones grow larger every year and cannot always be assured to fit, even with great effort, nor are they always comfortable to carry if and when they do. Side hip pockets are commonly included to hold smaller items like running gels or snacks. No matter the size or location, the best pockets will hold items securely against the body while preventing them from bouncing during a run.

What Material is Best?

The majority of running shorts are crafted out of some blend of synthetic fabrics, be it nylon, polyester, or spandex. This is due to the minimal weight, sleek feel, and breathability of these synthetics in contrast to natural fibers like cotton, which weigh more and tend to soak up moisture and encourage chafing. Wicking is important in running shorts, as saturated shorts will become heavier. Saturation also encourages chafing as the material then sticks to the skin rather than sliding against it. It is not uncommon to experience chafing from a liner or around the waist, so the material construction of these areas is of special interest to runners. Different material combinations deliver different performance traits. Polyester is typically the backbone of the fabric blends used to construct running shorts, making up the majority percentage of the material. However, many will incorporate spandex/elastane, nylon, or other performance materials into the mix to target specific design results. Spandex-heavy blends generally prove more stretchy but less breathable than other options. Meanwhile, nylon blends will be stretchier than polyester but can still feel limited when compared to spandex. For this reason, it is used much more sparingly than spandex and polyester in the blends we tested.

Conclusion

Whatever your running discipline, we understand the importance of the right pair of shorts to make the experience enjoyable. Hopefully, our review has helped you better assess the differences. If you've got any female runners in your life who may also be seeking the best gear options available to get them to their mileage goals, our review of women's running shorts offers an in-depth analysis written by women for women. Here's to an excellent season of running for us all!